That all looks good, I would want to see oil pressure on a mechanical gauge. The oil pump could be failing or the relief may be stuck partially open. The pump screen might be restricted from poor maintenance before you got it. The engine is clean inside which is nice to see. Most oiling failures are from lack of maintenance. Common spec is 10psi per 1k rpm. If it is less than 10psi hot you have either a pump issue or excessive clearance in the engine. I will look at a head gasket to see where the oil gets to the head. If it is near the pass side rear and you still have an external leak that may be the problem.

That is exactly where the oil passage to the head is. Timing chain end, rear of engine. Get a mirror and look where the head bolts to block. See if that is your source of your external leak. That would explain ticky lifters hot and oil on your alternator.

 

I can't get my hands on a mechanical oil gauge until later this week, but I will post the results when I get it. It does appear to be coming from the passenger side rear head gasket. It's even dripping down onto my driveway.

Looks like quite the project to replace it but something I'm prepared to do if it seems likely that could be the root of all my problems. Low oil pressure on the mechanical gauge would almost confirm it right ?

Is there anything else I should do while I have it all apart. I was thinking of doing a oil pump repair kit just to be safe

 

If you see the leak coming from that corner between the head and the block I would say that is the root cause of your issues. What are your plans for this car? Since the head has to come off to replace the gasket you will be most of the way to replace the rings. If you replace the rings and get the head checked out at a machine shop for flat, have them replace the seals. Your oil use should decrease dramatically. I would also address the chain and guides at this point.
If it is just a patch to sell, replace the gasket and say adios.
Best of luck with your “project”.

 

To add to Andy's information, at that mileage, if you're keeping it and driving it into the ground, you may wish to replace the valve guide seals if you replace all of the rings, as they are the other significant mechanism for oil burning.

There's a host of things you might consider if you're keeping it...

 

I do a lot of driving for work and have grown fond of the car and it's mpg so I would like to keep it. I really appreciate all the time you guys have put in helping me and everyone else on this forum. Is there anyway I can donate to you guys or the website to help keep it going?

 

It is always cheaper to repair it than replace the car with an unknown. I have several Saturns and one token Oldsmobile with the L61 engines. I am still getting a twin to your S that needs work. I enjoy helping when I can, spending time with like minded people.
Andy

 

What can yo do to help us keep the forum going?

Absorb and pass it on.
Stick around.

Someone always brings us something we've never seen on the forum.